Neapolitan Portrait Doll of Melchoir, King of Persia, in Royal Robes

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16" (41 cm.) including turban and stand. Polychromed terra cotta shoulderhead portraying handsome young royal king, sculpted flowing brown hair, moustache with curled tips and goatee, stern expression with curved brows, enamel eyes, tow-wrapped posable armature body, carved wooden arms and legs, carved and painted distinctive red boots with tassel trim, wearing lavish original royal costume with overall gilt metallic embroidery and beading, comprising bronze green silk harem pants, red silk belted tunic, green silk coat, red silk cape with collar, padded draped turban, mounted on wooden base. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Neapolitan, mid-1700s, portraying Melchoir, King of Persia, bearer of gifts in the traditional Magi scene. Value Points: especially fine sculpting, original finish, splendid costume with rich metallic embroidery.